Soo Man Lee

Founder and Producer, SM Entertainment Group

Founder Soo Man Lee of S.M.ENTERTAINMENT GROUP is undoubtedly one of the most renowned producers in Asia, having formed and produced its best artists. These artists include H.O.T, the group that originated the term ‘Korean Wave,’ which refers to the incredible popularity of Korean pop culture throughout the world. He has also produced the bands S.E.S., SHINHWA, Fly to the Sky, BoA, TVXQ, Superjunior, Girls’ Generation, SHINee and f(x). He graduated from Seoul National University and obtained his master’s degree from California State University, Northridge.

He debuted as a singer in 1971 as a member of ‘April and May’; released his solo album in 1974; won the Best New Singer Award at MBC 10 Best Singers Awards in 1976; and won the Best Singer Award at MBC in 1977. He also showed great talent as an entertainer and MC by hosting a radio show in 1974 and a self titled talk show ‘Soo Man Lee Show’ on MBC in 1980.

SM Lee established SM Entertainment in 1989 and introduced a structured system for the first time in the history of the entertainment industry in Korea. He developed market-leading content by precisely analyzing the music, fashion, and culture trends and by using his unique casting, training, producing and promotion system.

Particularly of note, he moved to the global market and created the cultural icons and content representing Asia with the 3-Phase Strategy based on CT (Culture Technology): (1) localization strategy, (2) joint production with local partners, and (3) complete localization by setting up a Joint Venture with local partners.

Soo Man Lee also received a plaque of merit from the Mayor of L.A. for his achievements in the Asian market, and for the development of stars like BoA and TVXQ!, which has been appointed as L.A. public relations ambassador. He also won the Best Producer’s Prize at various music awards in 1997, 1998, 2004, and 2008 and retained his reputation as the top producer, and he is expanding his sphere of influence beyond Asia to America starting with BoA.